Mushayavanhu exposes his tribal appointment as RBZ Governor
RBZ GOVERNOR: Dr. John Mushayavanhu
By Nkosana Dlamini
MASVINGO – In a seismic shift that defies conventional norms, the recently-appointed Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) governor, John Mushayavanhu, has openly acknowledged that his appointment was driven by tribal considerations rather than merit.
His bold stance reverberates through Zimbabwe’s financial corridors, challenging entrenched practices and ushering in a new era for Masvingo and beyond.
A Spirited Celebration
In a bold move to shatter the status quo, Mushayavanhu hosted a spirited celebration at his rural Gutu homestead recently. His appointment by President Emmerson Mnangagwa was described as a strategic step to dismantle the SaManyika hegemony that had long dominated the apex bank.
Challenging Mugabe’s Legacy
Addressing his tribesmen in the heart of rural Gutu, Mushayavanhu wasted no time in challenging the legacy of the late former president Robert Mugabe. He lambasted Mugabe’s practice of exclusively appointing men from Manicaland as governors during his tenure. With fervor, Mushayavanhu expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for “appointing his own,” asserting that it was now time for representation from Masvingo.
A Shift in Power
Amid jubilant cheers from relatives and villagers, Mushayavanhu highlighted the lineage of his predecessors – Kombo Moyana, Leonard Tsumba, Gideon Gono, and John Mangudya – all hailing from Manicaland. “I want to thank the president for thrusting Gutu and Masvingo into the spotlight,” he declared in Shona.
By appointing him, Mnangagwa had broken Mugabe’s tradition, signaling a shift away from Manicaland dominance at the apex bank.
Homecoming and Gratitude
Returning to his ancestral village, Mushayavanhu expressed deep gratitude to those who nurtured him. “Your son has ascended to a top government position,” he proclaimed. His commitment to his roots extended to childhood friends and shared memories of herding cattle.
A Historic Appointment
Mushayavanhu’s elevation to the helm of the Reserve Bank marks a historic moment. Since assuming the presidency in November 2017, Mnangagwa had not previously appointed anyone to this pivotal role. The seasoned banker officially assumed office in March this year.
The ZiG Revolution
Mushayavanhu’s tenure has already seen significant developments. His introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), a gold-backed currency, promises to address the country’s prolonged currency challenges. The ZiG initiative aims to restore confidence and stability to Zimbabwe’s monetary system.
Navigating Patronage and Legacy
While governorship appointments elsewhere might pass as routine promotions, in Zimbabwe, they are intrinsically tied to the nation’s intricate patronage system. During Gono’s era, the apex bank dispensed favors akin to Father Christmas, benefiting Zanu PF loyalists through quasi-fiscal policies. Expensive foreign-sourced farm machinery flowed to politicians, clerics, and business leaders, with the controversial RBZ Debt Assumption Act later absolving recipients of financial liabilities.
– Zimbabwe Observer
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